Subaru BRZ

The Car Connection Subaru BRZ Overview

The Subaru BRZ is a compact, rear-wheel-drive sports car. The two-door Subaru has a twin in the form of the Scion FR-S, now dubbed the Toyota 86. Subaru developed both models for itself and for Toyota.

The BRZ is a competitor for the Nissan 370Z and the Mazda MX-5 Miata, but even Porsche's Cayman follows the same lightweight, razor-sharp formula.

The BRZ is one of the best economical sports cars on the market, and it's the only Subaru to be sold in the U.S. without all-wheel drive.

The BRZ was introduced for 2013 and originally sold in two different models, both of which remain available. Both the Limited and Premium trim levels offer a choice of a 6-speed manual transmission or an automatic with the same gear count. Power comes from a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-4 that benefits from a combination of direct and port fuel injection. The manual offers good weighting, while the auto gearbox features steering-wheel paddles and can rev-match downshifts by blipping the throttle. The engine is set very low in the chassis, especially when compared to Subaru's other offerings, which have to clear front-mounted all-wheel-drive gear.

While the BRZ was intended to be as light as possible, it also has what Subaru says is one of the lowest centers of gravity of any current production model. The engineers targeted the Porsche Boxster for that measurement as well as the overall handling. With its sport-oriented suspension tuning, quick steering, summer-performance tires, and Torsen limited-slip differential, it manages to deliver on its focused promises.

At just 50.6 inches high and about 166 inches long, the Subaru BRZ is a compact model—a point enforced by its short overhangs and flared fenders. The BRZ's 2+2 seating, with the tight cabin offering very tight rear perches, is barely usable for adults, if at all. Its trunk is quite spacious however, and the rear seat back folds forward.

The BRZ has earned some of the best safety ratings among sports cars, with "Good" ratings in most test categories from the IIHS, except the difficult small overlap front crash, where it earned an "Acceptable" rating. It includes a four-channel ABS system, brake assist, and a five-mode driver-selectable stability control system. Side-curtain airbags and front pelvis and torso bags are also included. The structure itself builds on the automaker's Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame system that has established a strong reputation for safety in its other models.

Premium models include voice-activated navigation, satellite radio and HD radio tuners, Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity, HID headlamps, and a Torsen limited-slip differential. The Limited models get leather-and-faux suede upholstery and heated seats plus dual-zone climate control, keyless ignition, fog lamps, and a rear spoiler. There are no option packages for either model, though standalone choices include dealer-installed accessories such as additional trim or an auto-dimming mirror with garage-door opener.

The BRZ has been essentially unchanged since it was launched and no turbocharged STI edition has materialized—much to the agony of enthusiasts. There have also been rumors of a BRZ-based sedan or convertible that could come from either Subaru or its Toyota/Scion partners, but it seems the reality is that these models sells in such small volumes that extra variants may not be worth the added cost.

All 2015 BRZs received wider exhaust outlets and a new shark-fin antenna design. Subaru also offered a limited-edition Series.Blue package for the 2015 model. It brought together an STI aero package, black-painted STI wheels, special World Rally blue paint (white is also available), and some unique interior finishes with a healthy smattering of blue trim, but no extra power or performance changes.

The BRZ added a new infotainment system and a standard rearview camera for 2016. The BRZ added a Performance Package on manual-equipped, Limited-trim cars for 2017, including a revamped suspension tune, new wheels, and other updates. All manual-equipped cars received a slight power bump, to 205 hp, while automatic BRZs were unchanged in output. A slight styling revamp accompanied those changes, with a slightly lower front end and a new spoiler among the changes.

For the 2017 model year, the BRZ's twin is getting a name change. The Scion FR-S will become the Toyota 86, as Toyota shuts down its Scion brand.

Purchased 2016 BRZ earlier today

Overall Rating

Interior/Exterior

Performance

Comfort and Quality

Safety

Features

Fuel Economy / MPG

Reliability

I've had this BRZ for only a few hours. It drives as described in many reviews. A very tight ride, low to the ground, with sufficient but not overwhelming power. If this is what you want then I'm confident you...
I've had this BRZ for only a few hours. It drives as described in many reviews. A very tight ride, low to the ground, with sufficient but not overwhelming power. If this is what you want then I'm confident you will like this car.

The blind spots are not as bad as I expected. The lack of headrests in the back seat provide extra visibility through the back window. In contrast the majority of cars that have back seat headrests have comparable if not worse visibility through the back window.

For me the car would be better if it had the Subaru Eyesight safety features.

At last, A lightweight,balanced sports car

Overall Rating

Interior/Exterior

Performance

Comfort and Quality

Safety

Features

Fuel Economy / MPG

Reliability

A great basic sports car but including many of the modern amenities. (A/C,cruise control, power windows and satellite radio) A great handling sports car because of its even F/R balance, Its low C.G., high...
A great basic sports car but including many of the modern amenities. (A/C,cruise control, power windows and satellite radio)

A great handling sports car because of its even F/R balance, Its low C.G., high structure stiffness. and ergonomic cockpit design.

It is advertised as a 2+2 but I doubt the rear seat would work well for a grown person.

A fun, very special car that is a joy to drive with superb handling that makes you want to never get out of it.

Overall Rating

Interior/Exterior

Performance

Comfort and Quality

Safety

Features

Fuel Economy / MPG

Reliability

I've heard so many good things about Subaru cars over the years that I've longed to own one. Since I've always been a sports car lover, when I heard that Subaru finally had a sports car, that made up my mind...
I've heard so many good things about Subaru cars over the years that I've longed to own one. Since I've always been a sports car lover, when I heard that Subaru finally had a sports car, that made up my mind to become a Subaru BRZ owner. I am ecstatically thrilled with my BRZ and want to be driving it 24 hrs. I feel it's a part of me -- we are "one" when I'm at the wheel. So easy and tons of fun to drive. + More »